Dr. Neelam Bhardwaj is a medical professional with a wealth of experience in the field. She holds multiple degrees, including MBBS, MD, DRH, and PGDHHM, and has dedicated over 30 years of her career to healthcare. Currently serving as the Founder and Managing Director at Helplife, a non-profit organisation, she has made significant contributions to reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health.
Neelam's passion lies in empowering young girls and women from underprivileged communities. Throughout her career, she has worked extensively in international health, serving as a technical expert for maternal and child health with UNICEF in countries such as Indonesia, Sudan, Uganda, Malawi, and India. At UNFPA headquarters in New York, she played a crucial role in improving reproductive health for girls and women. Neelam also collaborated with organisations like the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Sierra Leone and PATH India to introduce innovative approaches in remote areas, preserving cultural practices and saving lives.
With numerous national and international awards to her name, Neelam is a respected figure in the medical community. She has authored several publications, contributing to the body of knowledge in her field. Additionally, she holds postdoctoral degrees in medicine and healthcare management from established universities in India.
Neelam's pursuit of knowledge and global perspective led her to study at Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine. In 1996, she graduated with a diploma in Reproductive Health in Developing Countries, a program jointly organised by LSTM and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. This opportunity allowed her to expand her expertise in reproductive health within developing countries.
During her time at LSTM, Neelam deeply valued the multicultural experience and connections she made with colleagues from around the world. The international exposure and support from the faculty helped shape her global health mindset. This experience, coupled with her teaching assignment for the Certificate in Tropical Community Medicine and Health (CTCM&H) course, enhanced her confidence and skills in engaging with international audiences.
Following her studies at LSTM, Neelam continued her career as an associate professor at Bhartiya Vidyapeeth Medical College, conducting research and teaching medical students. In 2000, she joined UNICEF's Mumbai Office, eventually becoming an international staff member and serving in various countries for 15 years. Afterward, she worked with UNFPA for four years until her retirement in December 2019.
Currently, Neelam devotes her efforts to Helplife, the non-profit organisation she founded in 1999. Through Helplife, she aims to create inclusive communities by focusing on health, education, and livelihood initiatives. Particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, Neelam has implemented innovative strategies to prevent vulnerable communities in rural India from falling into poverty. She actively works on nationwide campaigns to mainstream disability in India, striving to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need.
As a motivational speaker and advocate for marginalised populations, Neelam shares her experiences and wisdom to inspire others. She is an active member of various women-centric platforms, including the Compassionate Birthing Network, Collaborative Birth Equity, Helping Children Worldwide, International Society for Female Professionals, and Better Lives Foundation in the United Kingdom.
Neelam Bhardwaj's journey in the medical field has been marked by transformative leadership, dedication to improving the lives of women and children, and a commitment to creating sustainable solutions in healthcare. Her impact continues to resonate as she strives to give back to society and make a lasting difference in the world.